Friday, May 22nd is National Road Trip Day! Perfect timing since this weekend is the *official* kickoff to summer -- Memorial Day weekend! Hop into your car, enjoy a full day of exploring, & get out of town for a day. Here are 9 great day trips that allow you to explore & return to Boise by dinnertime
Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Souce: Bogus Basin website
Distance from Boise: 45 minutes north
Why Road Trip Worthy: Bogus Basin isn’t only a winter destination. During the summer months, Bogus Basin offers hiking, biking, live music & events, running, disc golf, and the mountain coaster (fun!). You can also try the lift & experience some incredible views. Learn more about Bogus Basin HERE
Craters of the Moon
Source: NPS.Gov
Distance from Boise: 3 hours east
Why Road Trip Worthy: you get to see vast lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush.
Learn more HERE
Bruneau Sand Dunes
Souce: Idaho Parks & Recreation
Distance from Boise: 64 miles south
Why Road Trip Worthy: It’s the tallest dune in North America, reaching over 470 ft. It’s also the only place in Idaho where you can dune ski. The Visitors Center offers sand boards to rent to have some dune fun! When you visit, you can also fish, birdwatch, camp, hike, view the stars and swim. The Bruneau Dunes Observatory Complex is only one of two public observatories in Idaho & home to a 25” telescope.
Learn more HERE
Hells Canyon Recreation Area
Source: visitidaho.org
Distance from Boise: 2 to 3 hours away, depending on activity
Why Road Trip Worthy: Hells Canyon spans three states (Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) and is known as the deepest river gorge in North America. While most of the canyon is inaccessible, you can enjoy activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, and jet boat rides. If anything, the road trip is worth the views.
Learn more HERE
Idaho City
Source: Southwest Idaho Travel Association
Distance from Boise:1 hour west
Why Road Trip Worthy: Back in the 1800s, Idaho City served as a mining town & the once-capital of Idaho. If heading back in time is your desire, Idaho CIty will give you the Wild West charm. You can explore its local shops, quaint restaurants, and even an old sarsaparilla shop. Let’s not forget the hot spring destination The Springs. This developed hot springs pool is a popular destination for many.
Learn more HERE
Idaho Wine Country
Source: Snake River Wine Tours
Distance from Boise: 1 hour west
Why Road Trip Worthy: The Sunny Slope wine district is over to over 13 different wineries. From Koening to Sawtooth Winery to St. Chappelles, you will not be disappointed by the majestic views and incredible wine tasting. Most of the wineries are open year-round & offer free tastings. Side note: if you do not want to drive & prefer for someone else to drive you, book a tour with Snake River Wine Tours. Say hi to Sam for me!
Learn more HERE
Sawtooth National Forest
Source: Redfishlake.com
Distance from Boise: 3 hour drive east
Why Road Trip Worthy: ask any local -- Sawtooth National Forest is a popular answer of must-see destinations outside of Boise. This natural beauty is a sprawling area of pristine forest, rugged wilderness & impeccable views. Grab your hiking gear & explore.
Learn more HERE
Twin Falls/Shoshone Falls
Source: The Idaho Statesman
Distance from Boise: About 2 hours south of Boise
Why Road Trip Worthy: Twin Falls is the home of Shoshone Falls -- known as the Niagara Falls of the West. The views are so breathtaking! After you explore the Shoshone Falls, you can head downtown for some additional exploring. Grab crepes at Twin Beans. Enjoy a cold beer at Milner’s Gate. Shop at the Brass Monkey
Learn more HERE
McCall
Source: Visit McCall
Distance from Boise: 2 hours north
Why Road Trip Worthy: as a resort town, McCall offers visitors a little bit of everything: picturesque views, outdoor recreation, guided walkways, and amazing places to dine. You can enjoy lake views with the McCall Lake Cruise. You can zipline at Tamarack Resort. Have some fun on the McCall Ale Trail. As a popular destination for Boiseans, McCall is deserving of many day trips.
Learn more HERE
PLEASE RECREATE RESPONSIBILITY:
Despite COVID-19, many recreational opportunities exist in Idaho’s outdoor areas.
Per the Idaho.gov website, “Residents are encouraged to enjoy a walk, a hike or a ride but must adhere to best health practices to prevent virus transmission, including staying at least 6-feet away from others and avoiding groups of people who are not immediate family members or housemates.”
Read more on how to recreate responsibly while on your road trip HERE
LEAVE NO TRACE
When exploring the outdoors, please be mindful of Leave No Trace principles. 7 principles you can follow to help minimize impact when visiting the outdoors. Respect the land & our environment. Please click HERE to learn more.
Source: Maverick Car Company
In the market for an adventure-worthy vehicle, my friends at Maverick Car Company can help! Give Freeman & his team a call at 208-314-8080 or visit www.maverickcarcompany.com. I plan to hop in my Maverick car & go on a few of these road trips. #MaverickCarPartner #LifesAnAdventure